Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi:  Persepolis was the last major novel (graphic or otherwise) that I added to my World Literature Course.  I wanted to add another work by a woman and by someone who was not American (there is probably too many American works in this course - but there you have it).  It made sense for a number of reasons: 1) It is a masterpiece and a great and universal piece of Literature.  2) It was suggested by students.  Like the previous new addition, The Things They Carried,  former students told me that this book would fit so well into the course - and of course (no pun intended) they were right.

The graphic novel tells the story of a  young woman growing up in Revolutionary Iran - and all of the troubles, heartache, and maturing that that experience entails.  Though far removed (mostly in locale and culture) it is a book that my students could totally identify with, while at the same time catching a glimpse of life half a world away.

With the memory of Paul Baumer (from All Quiet) still fresh in their minds - they would now have a novel about growing old (before their time) from a woman, and an Iranian.  As always, it comes back to the idea of reading literature to "know that we're not alone."  And my students - quite simply - adored this book.

It's also a wonderful fit because it is something completely new.  The graphic and visual nature of the book appeals (I know I use that word too much) to readers who struggle with just the words.  It also forced us (and me) in a good way - to approach the reading and discussion in a new way.  

We only read the first part of Persepolis (there are two books - we read the first).  However, when we finished the reading - we watched the second half of the film that was made of the novel - and we get to experience Marjane when she reaches adulthood.  Another great thing about these books is how that central metaphor of "Persepolis" the ancient kingdom that both was and that never existed permeates the story and the characters.

As always, there is a bookmark for assigning the reading - and giving students quotes from the poems we do before the novel.